Data Science Major
Data science is a rapidly growing field. This major offers an exciting blend of statistical inquiry, analysis, and interpretation, combined with computational processing and algorithmic techniques to leverage domain-specific data into accountable and well-informed decision-making. Students will choose from three tracks: artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, or game design. In addition to the departmental requirements below, a student must complete the University Core Curriculum, the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences language requirement, and other general requirements.
Advising Blueprint for Career Development
We have compiled an Advising Blueprint for Data Science Majors, which gives suggested activities during your four years at Butler to better support your future career.
Mathematics Courses:
- MA 106 Calculus & Analytic Geometry I
- MA 107 Calculus & Analytic Geometry 2
- MA 162 Elementary Statistics
- MA 310 Linear Algebra
- MA 320 Big Data Ethics, Governance, and Beyond
- MA 360 Probability Theory I
- MA 361 Statistical Theory
- MA 362 Linear Regression & Time Series
- MA 369 Multivariate Statistical Methods
- MA 468 Predictive Analytics & Data Mining
Computer Science Courses:
- CS 151 Foundations of Computing I
- CS 248 Object-Oriented Programming & Data Structures
- CS 252 Foundations of Computing II
- CS 333 Database Systems
- CS 341 Advanced Data Structures
- CS 351 Algorithms
- CS 445 Artificial Intelligence
- CS 485 Computer Ethics
Here is more information about computer science tracks.
Elective Course:
1 – 3 credit, 300 level or above course labeled MA, CS, or SE that is not already counted toward the major.
| Fall | Spring | |
| First Year | MA 106 MA 162 CS 142 CS 151 FYS | MA 107 CS 248 CS 252 FYS Core Class |
| Second Year | MA 310 MA 360 CS 333 (fall only) Foreign Language GHS | MA 361 Foreign Language GHS |
| Third Year Odd fall/even spring | MA 362 MA 369 (fall only) CS 341 (fall or spring) | MA 468 CS 351 |
| Fourth Year Even fall/odd spring | CS 445 | CS 485 300+ Level CS, SE, or MA elective |
| Third Year Even fall/odd spring | MA 362 MA369 (fall only) CS 341 | CS 485 (fall or spring) CS 351 |
| Fourth Year Odd fall/even spring | MA369 (if not previously taken) 300 + level CS, SE, or MA elective | MA 468 CS 445 |